Life's precursor?

Is school the precursor to the world of work or to life itself? One would think by observing children that it is the former: sitting at desks, working, meeting deadlines, being assessed, following rules and regulations and demonstrating discipline. Of course all these are essential to learning and surely that is the prime purpose of schools. However let us not be so quick to dismiss the latter option too. Having worked with children as a teacher for over 20 years now, I see that providing emotional support, showing care and concern, teaching life skills and just basically imparting wisdom, are equally and often more important that just being a subject teacher. Teachers will never replace the role of parents/carers but I believe they should come a very close second. It is possible that a child will spend as much time with their teacher as with their own parents, especially now with the economic downturn and the need for families to work extra hours. Teachers wear many caps but this one of being a good role model and an encourager is one that cannot be neglected. Otherwise, children could go through their school years with gaps that will never be filled and can potentially harm their future prospects.